Stephen A. Edwards, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the Virginia Port Authority (VPA), has announced he will step down at the end of 2025 to take on a new role in the private sector.
Edwards has led the VPA since January 2021. During his tenure, the port largely completed its $1.4 billion capital investment program on time and on budget, while also achieving growth in volumes, revenues, earnings, and workforce hours.
Under his leadership, the port attracted record levels of port-centric industrial development in Virginia and successfully renegotiated the lease for the Virginia International Gateway Container Terminal.
The new long-term agreement provides the VPA with a defined option to purchase the terminal at a set price, along with greater operational and investment control.
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John W. “Bill” Kirk III, Chairman of VPA Board of Commissioners, said: “We cannot overstate the contribution that Stephen has provided during his tenure. Under Stephen’s guidance the Port of Virginia has been widely recognised as the highest performing port by customers and users.
“He has built a strong commercial and operating culture that will serve us well moving forward. He has truly positioned Virginia for continued success and we wish Stephen all the best as he begins his new and exciting challenge.”
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Edwards said: “I cannot be more thankful for the wonderful team and leadership at the Port of Virginia. This team is among the strongest in the nation, and it has a true purpose to help our customers and port users succeed and to bring economic value to the Commonwealth.
“I am confident in their continued success and I look forward to monitoring their future contributions to global trade and securing Virginia’s prosperity.”
Chief Administrative Officer, Sarah J. McCoy, will assume Interim Leadership of the VPA following Edwards’ departure; McCoy has worked in the port for 10 years.
For more information:
Port of Virginia – https://www.portofvirginia.com/
